e-learning indicators

In 2004 the Flexible Learning Advisory Group (FLAG) sought to identify a small set of indicators that could be used to measure the uptake and use of e-learning and e-business in the national vocational education and training (VET) system and measure the impact of e-learning on VET clients and VET providers.

An environmental scan of Australian and international research and education agencies identified approximately 250 potential indicators of e-learning. Through consultation over a period of months these were progressively reduced to produce a short list of twelve indicators which best address issues related to the uptake, use and impact of e-learning.

Primary indicators of e-learning

Six indicators demonstrate the uptake and outcome of e-learning in the VET system.

1. % of VET unit enrolments that use e-learning.
2. % of VET providers offering units that use e-learning.
3. % of VET learners who through e-learning have increased skills and confidence in using information and communication technology (ICT).
4. % of VET learners who through e-learning have or expect to have improved employment outcomes.
5. % of VET clients who believe e-learning and e-business gave them flexibility in when, where and how they engaged with VET.
6. Client satisfaction with e-learning experiences in VET.

E-business indicators

Three indicators are related to the uptake and impact of e-business.

7. % of VET providers offering e-business client, support and administrative services.
8. % of VET clients using e-business client, support and administrative services offered by providers.
9. Client satisfaction with e-business experiences in VET.

Teaching and training practices

Three indicators are related to the uptake, use and outcomes of e-learning on VET teachers and trainers.

10. % of VET teachers/trainers delivering units that use e-learning.
11. % of VET teachers/trainers who through e-learning have changed teaching practices in the design, development and delivery of units.
12. % of VET teachers/trainers who believe increased access to e-learning resources has improved teaching and learning outcomes.

The process for capturing information against each indicator has been fully documented in a report on National e-learning Indicators. The more substantial list of Other e-learning Indicators is also made available to support training organisations and VET programs looking for indicators specifically relevant to their e-learning and e-business initiatives.

From 2008 these national indicators have been supplemented by additional indicators drawn from the 2008-2011 Australian Flexible Learning Framework Strategy which examine the use by and impact of e-learning on individuals, business and industry, training providers and the VET system.